Indian Army Conducts Anti Tank Guided Missile Firing Test at Teesta Range in West Bengal

India

Defense News ,India :- The annual Eastern Command Anti Tank Guided Missile (ATGM) field firing was conducted at Teesta Field Firing Range in West Bengal from February 20 to February 28, a defence official said.According to the defence release, more than 1500 personnel from various units of the Infantry and Mechanised Infantry Battalion participated in the command-level training exercise.The firing was conducted under the aegis of the Trishakti Corps and more than 260 missiles were fired to achieve the target of One Missile and TankAccording to the release by the defence, firing was conducted keeping in view the tactical scenarios on the battlefield in which tanks have played a major role. The ATGM detachments fired from various modes that they might have to adopt based on the tactical situation.These included firing from various vehicles, including the recently inducted indigenous light strike vehicle, and firing by ground-based detachments. Engagement of targets by detachments inserted by helicopters was also practiced, the release added.Further, the release said, the firing was witnessed by the GOC, Trishakti Corps. He applauded the troops for their professional excellence and operational readiness and exhorted them to gain excellence in this important weapon.

Indian Economy under PM Modi offers ‘Real Alternative’ to China, says CNN report

India

Defense News ,India :- With the benchmark indices in the Indian stock market hitting new highs, FDI inflow burgeoning and strong investments happening in infrastructure, while China continues to reel under its property crisis, accelerated capital outflow and economic concerns, several experts believe that New Delhi offers a “real alternative” to Beijing, CNN reported. The report further highlighted that market watchers are quite keen on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s return to power for a third straight term in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls which will bring greater predictability to economic policies.Financial professionals around the world are noticing India’s development since 2014 under PM Modi, who has said he wants the nation to become a USD 5 trillion economy by 2025. Notably, the optimism around the world’s most populous nation is in stark contrast to the mood found in China, which is grappling with a myriad of economic challenges, including an accelerated flight of capital from the country, CNN reported.The Chinese stock markets have suffered a protracted slump since recent peaks in 2021, with more than USD 5 trillion in market value having been wiped out from the Shanghai, Shenzhen and Hong Kong bourses. Foreign direct investment (FDI) plunged last year, and fell again in January, down nearly 12 per cent compared to the same month in 2023.On the other hand, India’s stock market, is hitting record highs. The value of companies listed on India’s exchanges surpassed USD 4 trillion late last year. According to CNN, the future appears even brighter as India’s market value is expected to more than double to USD 10 trillion by 2030, according to a Thursday report by Jefferies, which would make it “impossible for large global investors to ignore.” Peeyush Mittal, a portfolio manager at Matthews Asia, a San Francisco-based investment fund said that there is no country like China other than India.“China is a no go, so…which is the other country that can maybe replace China?” said Mittal. “There’s no country like China other than India … in some form or fashion, it is the substitute that maybe the world is looking for to drive growth,” he said. Japan has also benefited from investors seeking an alternative to China — Tokyo’s benchmark index hit a new high for the first time in 34 years last week, helped by improving corporate profits and a weak yen. But the country is stuck in recession and recently lost its position as the world’s third biggest economy to Germany.MSCI’s indexes help institutional investors worldwide decide how to allocate money and where to focus their research. The latest revision by global stock index compiler MSCI reflects the bullishness towards India. MSCI said this month that it would increase India’s weighting in its emerging markets index to 18.06 per cent from 17.98 per cent, while reducing China’s to 24.77 per cent. “India’s weight in the MSCI emerging market index was about 7 per cent a couple of years back,” said Aditya Suresh, head of India equity research at Macquarie Capital.“Do I think that 18 per cent [in the MSCI index] is naturally gravitating more towards 25 per cent? Yeah, that’s kind of clearly where our conversations are leading us to believe.” As India heads towards national elections in the coming months, market watchers are hoping for PM Modi-led Bharatiya Janata Party’s return to power for a third term, bringing greater predictability to economic policies for the next five years, CNN reported. “If Modi is back with a majority and political stability is there, then I can certainly say with confidence that there’ll be a lot more investor interest in India on a more sustainable basis,” said Mittal. Also, there are good reasons for the euphoria around India. From a surging young population to humming factories, the country has a lot going in its favour.The International Monetary Fund expects India to grow by 6.5 per cent next financial year compared to 4.6 per cent for China. Analysts at Jefferies expect the country to become the world’s third largest economy by 2027. Much like China more than three decades ago, India is only at the beginning of an infrastructure transformation, spending billions on building roads, ports, airports and railways. Aditya Suresh said that there is a “very strong multiplier effect” on the economy from the investments in digital and physical infrastructure, which “you cannot roll back.” The world’s fastest growing major economy is also trying to capitalize on the rethink underway among companies on supply chains. Global businesses want to diversify operations away from China, where they faced obstacles during the pandemic and are exposed to risks arising from tension between Beijing and Washington.“India is a prime candidate to benefit from the ‘friend-shoring’ of supply chains, notably at the expense of China,” Hubert de Barochez, a market economist at Capital Economics wrote in January. As a result, some of the world’s biggest companies, including Apple supplier Foxconn, are expanding their operations in India. Tesla CEO Elon Musk said his company is looking to invest in India “as soon as humanly possible.” “[PM Modi] really cares about India because he’s pushing us to make significant investments in India, which is something we intend to do,” Musk told reporters last June.But, some experts have also raised concerns that India’s confidence may be bordering on hubris, as per CNN. According to Macquarie, retail investors alone own 9% of India’s equity market value versus foreign investors at slightly under 20%. Analysts, however, expect foreign investments to pick up in the second half of 2024, once the election is out of the way. Another potential challenge highlighted is that despite its new economic swagger, India might not have the capacity to absorb all the money that is flowing out of China, whose economy is still about five times bigger. But the fact that India’s sizzling rally is driven by domestic investors adds to the country’s strengths and reduces its dependence on foreign fund flows, as per CNN.Apart from geopolitical rifts and an uncertain economic outlook, foreign companies and investors have grown increasingly wary of domestic political risks in China, including the possibility of raids and detentions. Institutional investors are still very wary about buying Chinese stocks, even though many now look like a bargain. “There are many good businesses in China, but with all the regulatory issues it becomes very difficult to predict what they will look like in the long run,” said Priyanka Agnihotri, portfolio manager at Baltimore-based Brown Advisory.India, on the other hand, enjoys healthy relations with the West and other major economies, and is aggressively wooing large firms to set up factories in the country. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, in her budget speech said FDI inflows since 2014 stood at nearly USD 600 billion, which is twice the amount during the previous decade. “For encouraging sustained foreign investment, we are negotiating bilateral investment treaties with our foreign partners, in the spirit of first develop India,” she added. Analysts say that it would hard to stop the economic juggernaut India has set in motion, irrespective of what happens to China, CNN reported. “Even if China comes back to the table and resolves a lot of problems, I don’t think India is going back into the background anymore,” Mittal said. “It has arrived.”

PM Modi launches India's First Indigenous Green Hydrogen Fuel Cell inland Waterway Vessel

India

Defense News ,India :- India's Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, unveiled the country's first homegrown hydrogen fuel cell ferry this Wednesday. This ferry boasts zero emissions and noise, contributing to the fight against global warming.Cochin Shipyard, the creator of this innovative vessel, shared that India is prioritizing green hydrogen as a maritime fuel to achieve its goal of net zero emissions by 2070.As part of the Harit Nauka initiative, this inland waterway ferry serves as a pilot project to showcase the potential of this technology in the maritime sector, as mentioned by Cochin Shipyard in a statement.The fuel cell-powered ferry is not only environmentally friendly but also energy-efficient, significantly reducing the impact of global warming, the statement emphasized.In alignment with the Indian government's commitment to a sustainable future, Cochin Shipyard undertook the ambitious task of designing, developing, and constructing India's first fully indigenous hydrogen fuel cell catamaran ferry. This serves as a demonstration of the technology's viability in the maritime sector.During the virtual launch ceremony held in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, Prime Minister Modi participated. Madhu S Nair, Chairman and MD of Cochin Shipyard, presided over the event, with the participation of Lok Sabha Member Hibi Eden, Sreejith Narayanan, Director-Operations at Cochin Shipyard, and Jose V J, Director-Finance, along with Bijoy Bhaskar, Director-Finance, as mentioned in the statement.

Kraken Robotics Mine-Hunting Sonar Systems Operational with the Royal Danish Navy

World

Defense News ,Denmark :- Kraken Robotics Inc. has recently achieved a major milestone in its contract with the Royal Danish Navy Minehunting sonar upgrade program. The company completed all deliveries and successfully tested all systems related to its mine-hunting sonar equipment.The journey began in September 2020 when Kraken secured the contract through a competitive bidding process with the Danish Ministry of Defence Acquisition and Logistics Organization (DALO). The contract involved delivering four complete turnkey mine-hunting systems, each consisting of a KATFISH towed Synthetic Aperture Sonar, Tentacle Winch, Autonomous Launch and Recovery System (ALARS), topside command and control equipment, and remote operation and monitoring capability for standoff mine-hunting operations.Starting in 2022, Kraken integrated the KATFISH mine-hunting systems onto the Royal Danish Navy’s optionally uncrewed surface vessels (USVs) known as the MSF-class. Collaboration with MCM Denmark operators, workshop technicians, and the Danish shipyard JOBI played a crucial role in the successful installation of Kraken’s DNV design-approved ALARS onto the MSF-class during the planned mid-life refit. Additionally, Kraken integrated the KATFISH system with Saab’s Command and Control (C2) software, offering operators a seamless experience for mission planning and monitoring. The inclusion of Kongsberg’s Maritime Broadband Radio (MBR) enabled the complete system to operate remotely, streaming full-resolution sonar imagery in real-time at ranges exceeding line of sight.In 2023, Kraken further solidified its commitment by entering into a 7-year sustainment contract with DALO, with options for two additional 7-year extensions, totaling a possible 21 years of sustainment. The sustainment program includes regular maintenance, repair, and overhaul, along with training provision, spare parts, and the delivery of regular capability enhancements through software updates. Kraken will continue its support throughout 2024 by delivering additional spares, including tow cables and two spare KATFISH tow bodies.Kraken's dedication extended to comprehensive training programs developed and delivered to the MCM Denmark team, covering Onboard Operator, Onboard Maintainer, and Depot Maintainer training certification programs. As of 2024, the Royal Danish Navy has completed a full year of KATFISH operations, accumulating an undisclosed large number of operational hours.Commander (Navy) K.P. Hansen, Commanding Officer of MCM Denmark, expressed satisfaction with the KATFISH system's performance, highlighting its safe automated remote launch and recovery capabilities. The system's addition has enhanced the MCM toolbox, providing operators with a valuable capability in seabed warfare. The mission to ensure safety and security in Danish waters has been strengthened, promising many successful years of operations with Kraken systems.In February 2024, Captain (RDN) Jakob Damgaard Rousøe, Head of the Maritime Division within DALO, praised the completion of the process to integrate the Kraken KATFISH sonar into the Danish MCM forces. He anticipated that the MCM capacity would reach Full Operational Capability (FOC) within the first half of 2024. Captain Rousøe commended the extensive and coordinated efforts of all stakeholders, highlighting the impressive sensor's ability to provide detailed images, significantly increasing the detection and classification probability of mine-like echoes. He concluded by acknowledging the collective achievement of the team involved in the project.

Adani Defence Deploys AI for Quality & Safety at UP Factory

India

Defense News ,India :- In a big step forward for India's defense industry, Adani Defense & Aerospace is using artificial intelligence (AI) in its new Ammunition & Missiles Complex in Uttar Pradesh. This is a significant move towards advanced technology in India's defense manufacturing.Adani Defense CEO, Ashish Rajvanshi, explained how AI will be crucial in their factory:1. Smart Quality Control: AI will keep a constant eye on the production line, quickly identifying any faulty ammunition. This ensures the highest quality and precision.2. AI-Enhanced Safety: By analyzing machine data, AI can predict possible equipment issues. This allows for proactive maintenance, reducing accidents and creating a safer workplace.Why AI is Important in Defense Manufacturing:Fewer Mistakes: AI inspections are faster and more accurate than manual checks.Improved Efficiency: Quick defect detection and proactive maintenance make production smoother, possibly increasing output.Top Priority on Safety: AI's predictive abilities help prevent accidents, ensuring the safety of workers.Adani Defense's use of AI reflects their dedication to innovation and strengthening India's ability to rely on itself for advanced defense technologies. This step has the potential to transform the quality, safety, and efficiency standards in the nation's defense sector.

Lockheed Martin Developing Next-Gen Missile Defense System

World

Defense News ,U.S :- In November 2023, Lockheed Martin achieved an important step in developing a new missile defense system for the United States. The Missile Defense Agency (MDA) approved the completion of a key milestone, called Knowledge Point 1 (KP1), ahead of schedule. This progress allows Lockheed Martin's Next Generation Interceptor (NGI) program to move forward towards the Critical Design Review (CDR).During KP1, the MDA evaluated Lockheed Martin’s progress, checking off design review milestones and confirming advancements in crucial technologies, manufacturing readiness, and the NGI Software Factory. This success follows Lockheed Martin's on-schedule execution of the All Up Round Preliminary Design Review in September.Sarah Reeves, vice president of NGI at Lockheed Martin, expressed pride in the team's technical achievements during KP1. She highlighted the program's maturity, unprecedented for this stage of a missile defense initiative. With MDA's approval, Lockheed Martin is now entering the detailed design phase, continuing to test integrated NGI hardware and software in preparation for production and flight testing.Lockheed Martin is on track for the next milestone, the Critical Design Review. The ongoing work includes constructing ground test vehicles and using digital engineering tools to virtually simulate the interceptor's performance during system integration trials.The NGI system aims to protect the U.S. from evolving threats posed by long-range ballistic missiles from rogue nations. The first Lockheed Martin NGI is expected to be delivered to the military as early as Fiscal Year 2027.

India's Defense Prowess Shines in Pinaka MLRS Live Demo for French Chief

India

Defense News ,India :- In a recent event at the Pokhran Field Firing Ranges, India showcased its powerful defense capabilities to General Pierre Schill, Chief of Army Staff of the French Army. The focus was on the Pinaka Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS), a homegrown technology that emphasizes India's commitment to self-reliance in defense.During the live demonstration, the Pinaka MLRS displayed its precision and destructive power, impressing the audience with its thunderous barrage. This system, entirely designed and built in India, symbolizes the nation's growing strength in defense manufacturing.The demonstration also featured the Tata Loitering Munition systems, highlighting India's cutting-edge capabilities in weaponry. These advanced munitions provide precise strikes with minimal collateral damage, showcasing India's dedication to technological excellence in defense.An Eastern Command spokesperson stated, "The Pinaka MLRS and our advanced munitions systems underscore India's unwavering pursuit of technological superiority in defense. This demonstration strengthens the strategic ties between India and France."General Schill's visit further solidified the deepening defense cooperation between India and France, emphasizing their joint commitment to peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.Key Facts about Pinaka MLRS:Range: Up to 60 km (Mark-I Enhanced)Firepower: Launches 12 rockets in 44 secondsMobility: Tatra truck-mounted for rapid responseCombat Proven: Played a vital role in the Kargil War

Leonardo to Provide Falcon Shield Anti-Drone System for Canadian Armed Forces

World

Defense News , Canada :- Leonardo has won a contract from Public Services and Procurement Canada to give the Canadian Armed Forces its Falcon Shield C-UAS system. The deal includes several systems and a 10-year maintenance plan with options for more equipment and developing new capabilities. The first systems will be sent later this year, and the Canadian Armed Forces will quickly deploy Falcon Shield to protect deployed personnel at forward operating bases.Falcon Shield, a proven solution in the UK, addresses the threat from small, slow, and low-flying drones (group 1 to 3) that are hard to detect with regular air surveillance equipment. Using advanced sensors, the system quickly identifies, tracks, and prioritizes threats, allowing operators to effectively neutralize them.Produced in Basildon and Southampton, Falcon Shield is already in use by the UK's Armed Forces and trusted by allies on operations. It is also available for export worldwide. Leonardo continuously updates Falcon Shield to stay cutting-edge in the evolving security landscape.For the UK Royal Air Force (RAF), Leonardo has delivered seven complete baseline counter-drone systems, known as ORCUS in RAF service. These are part of the RAF's 'Synergia' research and development program and serve as a national standby capability for Emergency Services. The RAF has successfully used Leonardo's counter-UAS technology during high-profile events like the 2021 G7 summit and the 2022 Commonwealth Games.Leonardo has collaborated with the United States Armed Forces, integrating the US Air Force Research Laboratory's NINJA technology into the RAF ORCUS system. This demonstrated the system's ability to detect and mitigate dozens of small drone platforms around airbases.Leonardo will showcase Falcon Shield at Canada's 'Counter Uncrewed Aerial Systems Sandbox 2024' exercise in June. The system will counter drones operated by the Canadian Armed Forces' 'red team' during the event in Suffield, Alberta.

India and Bangladesh DG-level Border Talks in Dhaka Next Month

India

Defense News ,India :- India and Bangladesh will hold their bi-annual DG-level border talks in Dhaka next month to discuss issues related to curbing a variety of cross-frontier crimes and measures to create better coordination between their security forces and agencies, official sources said on Thursday. A delegation led by Border Security Force (BSF) Director General Nitin Agrawal is slated to travel to Bangladesh for the meeting to be held between March 5-9, the sources told PTI.This will be the 54th edition of the talks between the BSF and the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB).The discussions will be held at the BGB headquarters in Dhaka's Pilkhana.BGB DG Maj Gen Mohammad Ashrafuzzaman Siddiqui will lead the Bangladeshi delegation. The talks will include officials from home and external affairs ministries, and anti-narcotics and other agencies of the two countries, they said.Both sides are expected to deliberate on a number of issues related to border management like taking steps to stop incidents of assault and attacks on BSF personnel and civilians by Bangladeshi criminals, jointly checking crimes like smuggling of goods and fake Indian currency along this front, improving the coordinated border management plan (CBMP) and checking illegal construction activities along the border fence, among other things, a senior Union home ministry officer said.The BSF guards the 4,096-km-long Indian front with Bangladesh on the country's eastern side.The DG-level border talks were held annually between 1975 and 1992 but they were made bi-annual in 1993 with either side alternatively travelling to the national capitals of New Delhi and Dhaka.The last talks were held in Delhi in June 2023.The officer said the relations between the two countries and the forces are very good and this meeting is aimed at enhancing these ties.According to official data, more than 3,342 Bangladeshi nationals were apprehended by the BSF along the border in 2023, the highest number in over the last six years.A total of 77 BSF personnel were injured in attacks by Bangladeshi and Indian miscreants last year as compared to 43 and 64 such incidents in 2022 and 2021 respectively, the data showed.

Austria Acquires 36 Vehicle-Mounted Rheinmetall Skyranger Air Defense Systems

World

Defense News ,Austria :- Austria has recently bought 36 Skyranger mobile air defense systems for its Pandur wheeled armored vehicles. These vehicles are made by General Dynamics European Land Systems, and Austria has ordered a total of 225 of them. The entire deal is worth about half a billion euros, and the delivery of the Rheinmetall system is set to begin in 2026.The Skyranger Air Defense System is equipped with a versatile turret that includes a modern sensor suite, a 30mm automatic cannon, and Mistral guided missiles. The cannon can shoot 1,200 rounds per minute and has a range of 3 kilometers (1.86 miles). The system also has a command system that helps assess local threats.Designed to tackle various aerial threats like drones, fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters, cruise missiles, and loitering munitions, the Skyranger is a comprehensive defense solution.Austria's decision to purchase these systems comes after upgrading its existing 35mm Skyguard Next Generation system for 532 million euros ($576 million). Austria is the third country, following Germany and Hungary, to acquire the Skyranger system. Additionally, Denmark has chosen the Skyranger to fulfill its air defense needs.

PM Modi Hits Out At DMK Over "China Rocket" Advertisement

India

Defense News ,India :- Title: "Controversial Ad Sparks Outcry: Chinese Flag on Indian Space Launch Poster"In a recent newspaper ad celebrating the establishment of a new launch pad for India's space agency ISRO in Tamil Nadu's Kulsekarapatinam, a major controversy has erupted due to an image of the Chinese flag prominently featured on the rocket in the advertisement. The ad, commissioned by Tamil Nadu's Animal Husbandry Minister Anitha Radhakrishnan in his personal capacity, emphasizes the role of the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) in bringing this long-awaited project to the state.The poster depicts Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister MK Stalin alongside a rocket in the background. The contentious element is the rocket itself, bearing a resemblance to the Chinese national flag with its red nose adorned by four golden stars arced around a larger fifth star.Despite Minister Radhakrishnan being unavailable for comment, Thoothukudi MP Kanimozhi, in whose constituency the ISRO facility will be located, defended her party, attributing the error to the artwork designer. She argued that the issue does not warrant the intense backlash it has received. Prime Minister Modi and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) were swift to capitalize on the mistake. The PM criticized the DMK, accusing them of taking false credit and pasting "China's sticker" on the ISRO launchpad project. He asserted that the DMK, by featuring the Chinese flag, disrespected India's progress in the space sector and insulted the country's scientists.The BJP's state unit head, K Annamalai, intensified the criticism, denouncing the DMK's "total disregard for our country's sovereignty" and characterizing the rocket issue as a "manifestation of DMK's commitment to China." Annamalai questioned the DMK's actions, particularly during the Prime Minister's visit to Tamil Nadu, highlighting the defense offered by Kanimozhi, who stated, "What is wrong in having a Chinese picture?"Kanimozhi argued that India had not declared China an "enemy country" and pointed to the previous meeting between the Indian and Chinese Prime Ministers. She accused the BJP of attempting to divert attention and claimed that the DMK's intention was to prevent the rocket-launching facility from being established in the state.Annamalai vehemently disagreed, asserting that the DMK was going to great lengths to please their "Chinese masters." He criticized the DMK for glorifying China and its flag at a time when India was celebrating its achievements in space exploration. Annamalai concluded by demanding a minimum apology from the DMK.In summary, the controversy surrounding the newspaper ad has become a focal point for political tension, with accusations of the DMK compromising India's sovereignty by featuring the Chinese flag. The BJP, led by Prime Minister Modi, is capitalizing on the issue, portraying it as a deliberate attempt by the DMK to align with China and undermine India's progress in the space sector.

China Developing Artillery Launched Drone for Long Range Precision Targeting

World

Defense News ,China :- A News reports of January 2015 revealed that China’s Chengdu Aviation Corporation famous for designing some of China’s largest UAVs, has begun offering something far smaller, but just as deadly - deployed from a 155mm shell (PLZ-04 howitzer) or 300mm rocket (A-100 rocket launcher). When nearing deployment, the shell deploys a drag parachute to slow down. At the slower speed, the shell splits open so the drone can safely deploy. Despite the drone’s small size, its sensors are capable enough of detecting specific targets like tanks.This little drone can also be fired from large artillery, such as a 155mm cannon or a rocket launcher, to quickly scout for and light up enemy armored vehicles with its laser designator. Once enemy vehicles have been targeted, the parent artillery battery can fire off laser guided shells and artillery to accurately destroy the enemy. The drone is lodged inside a specially designed warhead inside a rocket or artillery shell. At the appropriate attitude, the warhead deploys a parachute in order to slow down and release the drone. The drone then uses its four wings to stay aloft, while it scans for enemy vehicles. An operator back at the artillery battery designates the drone to use its laser (as well as any another sensors) to lock onto enemy vehicles by marking their rooftops, just like the laser designator on a Reaper drone or Apache attack helicopter.The artillery launched drone has six sections, including guidance fins, wings for gliding, communications link, and the sensor/laser targeting payload. It offers an advantages over small traditional UAVs and larger reconnaissance UAVs. Artillery launch provides the drone with speed and mobility advantages over small hand launched UAVs like the Raven. Its small size also makes it cheaper and harder to detect, compared to a larger UAV like the ScanEagle. This drone represents not only the growing innovation in Chinese unmanned system, but also advancements in Chinese defence networking and battlefield situational awareness.

Middle Eastern, North African Countries Show Interest in BrahMos Missiles

India

Defense News ,India :- India wants to sell more of its strong BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles, and countries in the Middle East and North Africa are interested. India can launch these powerful missiles that can hit targets over 450 km away. The missiles are on planes stationed in different parts of the country.Some friendly countries in the Middle East and North Africa use Sukhoi-30 fighter jets. These jets can be equipped with BrahMos missiles. Officials say these countries are interested in having this strong capability, and they have been talking about it. Delegations from these countries have also met with the BrahMos teams to learn about the missiles and their abilities.BrahMos Aerospace has been successful in the Philippines. They got orders for BrahMos missiles, and they will supply them in the future. Some countries in the region are also thinking about using BrahMos missiles for land attacks, and India is supporting this at a senior level.The chairman of BrahMos Aerospace, Atul D Rane, is working to increase exports of the missile systems. This aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's goal to export military hardware worth USD 5 billion in 2025.BrahMos Aerospace has been successful in India too. The Indian Navy ordered more than 200 missiles for Rs 19,000 crore. These missiles will be used for anti-ship and land attack roles. The recent order from the Navy was cleared by the cabinet committee on security in its meeting last week.Now, BrahMos Aerospace is focusing on getting larger orders to be more cost-effective and help its suppliers get more significant orders.

Texas Nuclear Plant Open, After Massive Wildfires Closure

World

Defense News ,U.S :- In Texas, a nuclear weapons plant, known as the Pantex Plant, located near Amarillo, faced a temporary shutdown due to five uncontrolled wildfires raging in the area. The largest fire, called the Smokehouse Creek Fire, had already scorched 300,000 acres. Despite these challenges, the Pantex Plant reassured the public that it would resume normal operations on Wednesday.The wildfires were fueled by strong winds and unusually warm temperatures, as seen in satellite imagery spreading southwards near Amarillo. To protect its facilities, the Pantex facility had initially halted operations, constructed fire barriers, and retained only essential staff overnight. The plant specializes in assembling and disassembling the United States' nuclear stockpiles, conducting nuclear material testing, and manufacturing high explosives.Although the plant confirmed that all weapons and special materials remained safe and unaffected during the wildfire crisis, it did not provide specific information on whether the danger had passed.Governor Greg Abbott declared a disaster in 60 counties, allowing for the allocation of additional resources to combat the fires. Across Texas, efforts had brought 25 out of 31 active fires under control. Evacuation orders were issued in several towns, with citizens urged to stay indoors due to poor air quality caused by the smoke.Reports indicated significant damage to buildings in Hutchinson county, with some towns issuing evacuation orders up to 100 miles away from Amarillo. More than 200 people sought shelter in a church in Fritch, 35 miles from Amarillo, after being forced to leave their homes. Many faced devastating losses, confirming the destruction of their residences.Melanie McQuiddy, a motel manager from the town of Canadian, described the scene as resembling "Armageddon," with trees covered in white ash. The wildfires also led to power outages, affecting over 4,000 Texans.Despite the challenges posed by the wildfires, the Pantex Plant's decision to resume operations signaled a step toward normalcy in the midst of a difficult situation.

Rajiv Gandhi Assassination Convict Santhan ,Died in Chennai

India

Defense News ,India :- Santhan, one of the seven people found guilty in the assassination of former Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, has died at Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital in Chennai. His death marks the end of a challenging journey that started with his role in a major political tragedy in Indian history.Santhan had been unwell, and he was admitted to the hospital in January because of liver failure, diagnosed with cryptogenic cirrhosis. Despite medical efforts to revive him after a cardiac arrest, Santhan passed away at 7:50 am. He leaves behind a legacy filled with controversy and legal battles.Originally from Sri Lanka, Santhan spent more than two decades in prison before his release in 2022. His release followed a long sentence for his involvement in the assassination of Rajiv Gandhi, an event that had a significant impact on Indian politics and resonated worldwide.However, Santhan's health declined, raising uncertainty about his hopes for a peaceful life after release. His death highlights the harsh realities faced by individuals caught up in the complexities of the criminal justice system, where the consequences go beyond the prison walls.

Indian Civilian Team Takes Charge in the Maldives as Military Personnel Withdraw

India

Defense News ,India :- A group of Indian civilians has come to the Maldives to run one of three aviation platforms. This is a big step in the process of Indian military personnel leaving, and they aim to finish this by March 10.This move shows how the two countries are working together more closely, moving from the military managing things to civilians taking charge.The team has arrived in Addu to start the careful process of handing over control. Their main job is to make sure everything goes smoothly as they take full command.The helicopter currently in Addu will soon head to India for planned maintenance. It needs test flights there to make sure it's ready for the journey.

Raytheon Completes First Successfully Test of New AMRAAM-ER Variant

World

Defense News , Norwey :- Raytheon and Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace, with help from the Norwegian Ministry of Defence (MoD) and Armed Forces, recently tested a revamped AMRAAM-Extended Range missile from a National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (NASAMS). The test proved that the upgraded AMRAAM-ER has enhanced capabilities.This new AMRAAM-ER version is unique as it uses the guidance section from AIM-120 C-8. It also has a stronger 10-inch rocket motor from Nammo and a 10-inch Control Actuator System, called the Norwegian Propulsion Stack, developed by Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace. The Norwegian MoD has been a collaborative partner in this project.Paul Ferraro, president of Air & Space Defence Systems at Raytheon, emphasized, “Adding this new technology to the AMRAAM-ER ensures its advanced capabilities will last for many years. Regular software upgrades will keep advancing AMRAAM to stay ahead of emerging threats.”During the testing, a missile was fired to follow a predetermined path, confirming its safe launch from the NASAMS launcher and checking its performance.The AMRAAM-ER is designed to work seamlessly with the NASAMS launcher, offering increased air defense protection by intercepting targets at a greater range and altitude compared to the non-extended range AMRAAM.NASAMS, a versatile medium-range air defense solution, is a joint effort between Raytheon and Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace. With years of experience, collaboration, and significant investment, this partnership aims to continually enhance NASAMS capabilities to effectively counter evolving complex threats.

Germany Discussing Sending Long Range Powerful Weapons to Ukraine

World

Defense News , Germany :- Two years have passed since Russia invaded Ukraine, and Germany is still discussing whether to send much-needed long-range weapons to the war-ravaged nation.Recently, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock admitted that the country is undecided on the matter. The concern is that these weapons might be used to strike deep into Russia, potentially escalating the conflict. The move could also be seen as more direct involvement by Germany.Despite acknowledging that Berlin's military aid to Kyiv is insufficient, Baerbock mentioned that German authorities have been brainstorming for the past year to figure out how they can provide more support, including long-range weapon systems.Ukrainian defense officials have been requesting long-range missiles and jets from the West to help repel the invading Russian troops. The US, the UK, and France have already reversed their previous decisions and delivered long-range weapons to Ukraine.Baerbock emphasized that it's totally understandable for the people in Ukraine to demand more support, considering the recent advances of Russian forces. Moscow has gained control of the strategic city of Avdiivka after months of heavy fighting and multiple failed attempts to seize the territory.Despite these gains, German lawmakers remain skeptical about delivering the highly-requested Taurus missiles to Kyiv. Initial plans involved technically modifying the weapon by applying programming restrictions to reduce its range and prevent Moscow from obtaining key components if captured.Baerbock did not provide information on whether a decision to supply long-range weapons to Ukraine is imminent.

Manipur Police Lay Down Arms in Protest Against Kidnapping of ASP ,Demand Action

India

Defense News ,India :- In a bold move, Manipur Police commandos decided to set aside their weapons in protest after the abduction of Additional Superintendent Amit Kumar Moirangthem. The incident occurred on Tuesday when a group of Meira Paibis (women volunteer group) and members of the Metei radical group Arambai Tenggol kidnapped the police officer and attacked other personnel. Fortunately, the officer was rescued quickly and is currently receiving medical attention.The police commandos, representing all five valley districts, have come together to demand action against the Arambai Tenggol group. They are also seeking assurance that political executives will not hinder their efforts when dealing with such outfits. The situation escalated on Tuesday, leading to the deployment of four columns of the Assam Rifles by the Army in Manipur East.Highlighting the urgency of the situation, a senior security official drew a parallel with a famous quote from former US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton in 2011: "You can't keep snakes in your backyard and expect them to only bite your neighbor." The official emphasized the need to address the rise in violence in Manipur, which has seen over 180 casualties since May 3.The violence erupted following a "Tribal Solidarity March" protesting the Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. The Meiteis, constituting 53% of Manipur's population and residing in the Imphal Valley, differ from the tribals, including Nagas and Kukis, who make up 40% and primarily inhabit the hill districts. Senior police officials are assuring their personnel that strict action will be taken against those responsible for the recent incidents.

North Korea's First Spy Satellite is ,Alive' , Can Manoeuvre, Raises Orbit Successfully

World

Defense News ,North Korea :- North Korea's first spy satellite is "alive," a Netherlands-based space expert said on Tuesday, after detecting changes in its orbit that suggest Pyongyang is successfully controlling the spacecraft - although its capabilities are still unknown. After two fiery failures, North Korea successfully placed the Malligyong-1 satellite in orbit in November. Pyongyang's state media claimed it has photographed sensitive military and political sites in South Korea, the United States, and elsewhere, but has not released any imagery. Independent radio trackers have not detected signals from the satellite. "But now we can definitely say the satellite is alive," Marco Langbroek, a satellite expert at Delft University of Technology in the Netherlands, wrote in a blog post. From Feb. 19-24, the satellite conducted manoeuvres to raise its perigee, or the lowest point in its orbit, from 488 km to 497 km, Langbroek said, citing data from the U.S.-led Combined Space Operations Center. "The manoeuvre proves that Malligyong-1 is not dead, and that North-Korea has control over the satellite - something that was disputed," he said. South Korea's Defense Ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment. On Monday, Defense Minister Shin Won-sik said the satellite was not showing any signs of performing other tasks or engaging in reconnaissance. "While we indeed currently can not be sure whether the satellite does successfully take imagery, it at least performs orbital manoeuvres, so in that sense it is functional," Langbroek wrote of Shin's comments. The orbit-raising manoeuvre was a surprise as the presence of an onboard propulsion system is unexpected, and previous North Korean satellites never manoeuvred, he said. "Having the capacity to raise the satellite's orbit is a big deal," Langbroek said. That means that as long as there is fuel in the satellite, North Korea can prolong the satellite's lifetime by raising its altitude when it gets too low because of orbital decay, he concluded. Nuclear-armed North Korea has vowed to launch three more spy satellites in 2024.

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Manipur Police Lay Down Arms in Protest Against Kidnapping of ASP ,Demand Action

North Korea's First Spy Satellite is ,Alive' , Can Manoeuvre, Raises Orbit Successfully

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